Which of the following is indicative of a furgivore diet among primates?

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Study for the UCF ANT2511 Exam. Review detailed flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam now!

A diet indicative of a frugivore lifestyle among primates is characterized by the consumption of fruits. One of the key adaptations that support this type of diet is thick molar enamel. This feature is crucial because frugivorous diets often involve the consumption of hard fruits and seeds, which require significant dental robustness to process effectively. Thick enamel helps prevent wear and damage to the teeth, allowing primates to efficiently break down tough materials found in their diet.

This dental adaptation is in contrast to other types of diets among primates. For example, long limbs are often more associated with arboreal adaptations for mobility in the trees rather than directly indicating a specific diet. Pointed canines are typically associated with carnivorous or omnivorous diets, as they are useful for processing meat rather than fruits. A short digestive tract is usually characteristic of carnivorous diets, where food passes through the system more quickly due to its nutrient density, while frugivores often possess adaptations for longer digestion to extract nutrients from fibrous plant material.

Overall, the presence of thick molar enamel effectively indicates a frugivore diet, as it reflects adaptations to the specific challenges posed by a fruit-based diet.